Ireland Golf Highlights - Kinsale and the surrounding area

Introduction

Golfers touring the South West of Ireland can chose to include a visit to Kinsale, near the Republic’s second city Cork. The attraction at Kinsale is the remarkable Old Head golf course and the town being known as the gourmet capital of Ireland. Another popular tour is Dublin and the South West. Some golfers chose to play Old Head on route with an overnight stay in Kinsale.

The Old Head Golf Links at Kinsaleis one of the most outstanding golfing layouts ever conceived. It was built on a promontory stretching two miles into the Atlantic Ocean. In terms of drama and beauty it is unrivalled in the UK and Ireland. The course is high above dramatic cliffs surrounded by the ocean on all sides and uses the natural contours of the peninsula to perfection. Every hole delivers magnificent ocean views. You will see and remember the drama of Old Head. Waves crashing against the sheer cliffs, seabirds flying over white surf, ocean spray on your face, it’s a wonderful experience.

There are two good golf courses in Cork.

Cork G.C. is situated on Little Island close to Cork City. It is a very attractive parkland course where the second nine was designed by Dr Alistair Mc Kenzie famous for his work at Augusta National.

Fota Island Deerpark Course is located near Cork in splendid parkland surrounded by woodlands. The Deerpark is known for its receptive greens, strategic bunkering and water hazards.

Gourmet capital of Ireland

Kinsale is a small town that boasts the greatest concentration of restaurants in Ireland and has long been known as the ‘Gourmet Capital’ of Ireland. It does not offer Michelin or other international restaurants. Kinsale has a Good Food Circle with 11 member restaurants. They take a pride in serving delicious, top quality food with a great atmosphere. Kinsale is proud to be considered a ‘Foodie Town’ and celebrates its annual Gourmet Festival in October, organised by the Good Food Circle.

Cork is a fascinating city that can be enjoyed by walking, there is a signposted tour and guide booklet. You can set off and enjoy the streets, which can be hilly and meet the people. In the evenings you have the Cork Opera House which offers music events and plays, also the Everyman Theatre. There are traditional Irish pubs, nightclubs and some live gig venues.

Blarney Castle was built 600 years ago and is one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. There is much of interest within the castle but for many the Blarney Stone is the main attraction.

Blarney Stone – The Stone of Eloquence - For centuries millions of people, often referred to as pilgrims, have climbed the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence. Its powers are not questioned but its origin has many versions many being “pure blarney”. The Stone is in the wall below the battlements. To kiss it you need to lean backwards while holding a railing. The stone has then bestowed the gift of eloquence and you should never be lost for words.

It follows that Corkonians are regarded as the most talkative of all the Irish. They also have a sing-song cadence to their voice which is much-loved by national comedians.

Outside of the city

Midleton is 30 minutes east of the city and has been famous for whisky for centuries. The Jameson Experience is now located in the original building and is one of Cork’s most popular tourist attractions. There are three options, a full guided tour with signature drink. Or an extended tour which takes you more behind the scenes. Also the Irish Whisky Academy is located here and a more complex tour is available which is 2 hours 45 minutes and particularly suited to Whiskey nerds.

On route from Dublin to Cork – you could visit the famous Waterford Chrystal factoryand/or its spectacular Showroom.